A man has been arrested in connection with a fire at the RCMP detachment in Fort Nelson, located in British Columbia’s Northern Interior.
The Northern Rockies detachment building had to be evacuated temporarily on Thursday after smoke from the fire entered the building through its air intake. Officials described the smoke as “considerable,” prompting staff to leave the premises for safety.
Authorities said the fire appeared to have been set on the exterior of the building. Some damage was reported, though police emphasized that the situation could have been far more serious if it had occurred outside business hours when no staff were present.
A witness reportedly saw a man start the fire. Investigators obtained a photograph of the suspect fleeing the scene. Officers were able to identify and arrest the individual after a brief foot pursuit.
Police confirmed that the suspect is now facing multiple charges linked to the fire. They did not release details about the exact charges but noted that the investigation is ongoing.
No injuries were reported during the incident, and authorities stressed the importance of public safety measures that were followed during the evacuation. The RCMP continues to examine the scene for further evidence to determine the full scope of the damage.
Officials said the response was swift and prevented what could have become a more dangerous situation. Emergency personnel were on site quickly, and the detachment resumed operations once it was deemed safe.
The RCMP detachment serves as a central hub for law enforcement in the Northern Rockies region, and the incident has raised concerns about security at public buildings. Police have urged anyone with additional information about the fire to come forward.
Residents of Fort Nelson expressed relief that no one was hurt. The incident has sparked conversations about increased surveillance and safety protocols for key government buildings in the area.
Authorities also noted that such incidents are rare in the region but remain serious due to the potential risks to public safety. The RCMP said they are reviewing security footage and interviewing witnesses to ensure all relevant details are documented.
The suspect remains in custody, and police have assured the public that all measures are being taken to hold those responsible accountable. The investigation is expected to continue in the coming days, with updates to be shared once more information is available.
